Singapore Horse Racing Ends After 180 Years for New Homes

In a historic turn of events, Singapore has officially closed the chapter on over 180 years of Singapore Horse Racing as the Singapore Turf Club hosted its Final Race day on Saturday. This significant occasion signals the end of an era in a country where equestrian sport has deep-rooted cultural significance. The government has made the difficult decision to reclaim the land for redevelopment, aiming to accommodate the burgeoning housing needs of the city-state.

The day was marked by an array of emotions as spectators gathered at the Turf Club for the last time. Under an overcast sky, the air-conditioned VIP boxes buzzed with enthusiasm, filled with socialites, expats, and longtime supporters of Singapore Horse Racing. Meanwhile, the grandstands and betting halls below were primarily occupied by an older generation of punters who had spent countless weekends enjoying the races. The atmosphere was bittersweet, heightened by the anticipation of the Final Race, the Grand Singapore Gold Cup, which saw the sun break through just in time for its start.

The Final Race winner, Smart Star, was ridden by South African jockey Muzi Yeni, who expressed a sense of loss that resonated with many present. In a post-race interview, Yeni said, “I’d like the government to look at it if I have much say.” His sentiments echoed the feelings of countless individuals who had devoted years to Singapore Horse Racing, whether as participants, trainers, or avid fans.

The decision to end Singapore Horse Racing surprised the riding and training community though the sport had been declining for years. In the past decade, people who attend horse races decreased, the normal count was 11,000 in 2010 to about 6,000 by 2019. The COVID-19 pandemic caused this drop reducing numbers to about half of pandemic levels. On the Final Race day, around 10,000 people attended filling only a third of the stadium.

Land has always been in high demand in Singapore, and the 120-hectare Turf Club site is now set to be demolished. The government plans to redevelop the area for both public and private housing, recognizing that Singapore’s population is expected to exceed six million this year. Officials stress that this redevelopment is crucial for securing sufficient land for future generations and addressing the ongoing housing challenges that the city-state faces. Preparatory work for the demolition is set to begin shortly, with a targeted deadline for site clearance by early 2027.

The history of Singapore Horse Racing is rich and fascinating. Established in 1842 by Scottish merchant William Henry Macleod Read during the British colonial era, the Singapore Sporting Club held its first competition just a year later at Farrer Road, north of the city center. 

The closure of the Singapore Turf Club has caused a deep sense of loss in the community. Some think redeveloping the land is necessary for progress, while others are sad about losing a tradition that has been part of Singapore’s identity for generations. The end of Singapore Horse Racing means not only losing a beloved pastime but also highlighting the ongoing challenges of urbanization and the need for more housing.

As Singapore moves forward into a new chapter the memories of Singapore Horse Racing will linger in the hearts of those who have participated in or supported the sport. The closing of the Turf Club marks the end of a significant era in the nation’s sporting history leaving behind a legacy that will be retained long after the last race has been run.